This summer’s World Cup in Russia will see the world’s best international teams go head-to-head. Here are some of the top contenders to win World Cup 2018:

Brazil

Brazil and the World Cup have an intrinsic link. However, the Selecao looked to be struggling in the early stages of qualifying, until the appointment of Tite as boss.

The highly-rated boss turned things around and the Samba Boys romped to qualification. Brazil were underperforming before Tite’s appointment, as they have some top stars in their squad, including the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Neymar.

Germany

The world champions were in ominous form in qualifying, recording a perfect record, as they finished 11 points ahead of second place Northern Ireland.

Die Mannschaft have played at every World Cup finals tournament since 1954, having only missed two finals in the history of the competition. Their history with the competition is massive, as they have lifted the trophy four times.

Once again, Joachim Loew has a highly talented squad of players available to him. It would take a brave man to back against the Germans retaining their title this summer.

Spain

The world champions of 2010 qualified for World Cup 2018 by topping their group ahead of Italy. Incredibly, La Roja are 63 games unbeaten in qualifying matches.

Julen Lopetegui’s side were in good form in qualifying raking up an incredible 36 goals, while conceding just three in ten games. Their form and the quality in their squad suggests that the Spaniards will be there or thereabouts when the trophy is lifted in mid-July.

France

France have an undoubtedly talented squad of individuals. However, Les Bleus did not enjoy complete dominance in their group, as Didier Deschamps side won seven of their ten games in a group featuring Sweden and the Netherlands.

With a number of highly rated players in their squad, France have to be seen as one of the most likely winners of the World Cup in 2018.